Introduction

Health Service carries and administers a wide range of immunizations. We can help students complete their required pre-entrance immunizations and we can administer vaccinations needed for travel, once ordered by one of our clinicians.

Immunization FAQs

Is there a charge for vaccines?
Yes, there is a charge for vaccines. Prices vary—some immunizations are quite inexpensive and others are very costly. You should check with your insurance company before getting a vaccine. Student Health insurance does not cover the cost of any vaccination. Many major medical insurances will reimburse for standard vaccinations if you receive them from your primary care physician, but may not reimburse for vaccinations given at Health Service. Few insurances cover the cost of any travel related immunizations, such as yellow fever, polio boosters and typhoid vaccine.

If you decide to receive an immunization at Health Service, the charge for the vaccine will be put on your tuition bill. Health Service will send you an itemized bill to your school address, which you may submit to your insurance, if they reimburse for that vaccine. You will be responsible for the charge on your tuition bill.

How much will an immunization cost?
The cost of an immunization will depend on what vaccine you need. We do not charge a fee for administering the vaccine—we just charge for the cost of the serum. A list of prices can be found here. The prices are updated fairly frequently, so the prices on our price list page are estimates, but they give you an idea of the magnitude. For most updated cost information, please call our business office.

How can I arrange to get a required pre-entrance immunization?
The state required pre-entrance immunizations include: Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis), MMR (Measles, Mumps and German Measles), Meningococcal vaccine, Varicella vaccine, and Hepatitis B vaccination. These vaccines can be administered at Health Service by scheduling an appointment. Please call 617-627-3350

How can I arrange to get travel vaccines?
Most travel vaccines need to be ordered by a clinician. Students need to make a travel consultation appointment. They should be sure to bring their own records of previous immunizations, particularly any past travel immunizations to the visit. This will help the clinician advise you on what you will need. The recommended and required vaccines will be discussed with the student, risk for exposure will be explored, and the costs, side effects, and schedule will be explained. The student and clinician together will then decide which vaccines the student wishes to receive. In many cases, the vaccines will be able to be administered at the time of the visit, if a nurse is available. If the nurse is not available, an appointment with the nurse can be made.

How can I arrange an immunization appointment with a nurse?
Health Service provides "immunization appointments" 2 to 3 days a week. The schedule varies depending on the time of year and on need. Appointments can be made by calling the main number at Health Service (617-627-3350)

Does Health Service carry the HPV vaccine? Can you give it to men?
Yes, Health Service currently carries Gardasil, one of currently licensed vaccines for use against Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Gardasil is licensed for use in men and women ages 9 through 26, and we will administer it to both men and women. It is most effective if given before becoming sexually active. It provides protection against 4 strains of HPV: two strains that most commonly cause cancer of the cervix, and two strains that most frequently cause genital warts. The vaccine does not treat HPV; it can only help prevent it. There are dozens of strains of HPV, so those who are immunized need to be aware that they can still catch HPV—vaccination just decreases the likelihood. Even those who are vaccinated should follow standard recommendations to reduce their chance of all sexually transmitted infections: consistent use of barriers (condoms, oral dams), and limiting the number of partners.

What is the schedule for Gardasil? What if I’m late for one of the shots?
Gardasil is a three dose series, given over a minimum of six months: the initial shot, one 2 months later and the third 4 months after that. However, the schedule is quite flexible. The doses should not be given at closer intervals, but they can be given at longer intervals without any problem. Ideally it is best to get the three dose series within a 12 month period, but it is still effective if given over a longer time span.

How much does Gardasil cost?
Gardasil is expensive. See the exact price on our price list in the Business Section. Many health insurances do reimburse for HPV vaccine, but they may require that you get it at your primary care doctor’s office. Please contact your health insurance company for more details. Student Health Insurance does not cover the cost of any vaccination.